What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are designed to grow with your family. They include thoughtful features that keep children happy and comfortable. The best double strollers come with adjustable footrests as well as smooth rides over old sidewalks, gravel and trails.
Kerry was thrilled that the stroller arrived in multiple boxes, but everything was clearly labeled and easy for her to open. She also liked the fact that it can accommodate two infant car seats and can be used with a riding board for older kids.
Seating Options
Seating options are a major element in determining whether an entire family will invest in a double stroller. You'll need to consider the age of your children, the sizes of them and the seating configurations you prefer.
For example, if you have children who are close in age and will be sitting side-by-side, consider a tandem stroller that has child seats that are attached to each other and does not require car seat adapters, according to Alli Cavasino, a senior editor at Consumer Reports. These are typically wider than other types of double strollers, they might not pass through door frames that are standard in your home.
If your children are different age, you may be interested in a stroller with two seats that can be turned into a stand-and-ride model. This will allow children to watch or ride with their siblings. These in-line strollers are also capable of accommodating infant car seats when needed and are suitable for children aged three years apart.
You'll also want to look at the type of seat material, explains Billingsley. Some fabrics are more breathable than others, and they are also easier to clean. It is also important to consider how easy it will be to fold down your stroller to store it or for transportation between your vehicle and home. "Nothing is more frustrating than acquiring the perfect stroller, only finding it's too heavy to lift or too big for your trunk," she says.
If you are seeking a low-cost alternative that can be configured in a variety of ways take a look at this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It comes with two toddler seats as well as the bassinet. It can be converted into a triple stroller adding a seat or a riding board. The seats recline, and the controls for the calf bar can be adjusted separately. This is great the time when one child is in need of a nap while another wants to explore their surroundings. When folded, the seat is compact and fits into most trunks.
Age ranges
Sit-and stand strollers are the ideal option for families with children who are close in terms of age. They offer convenience and comfort. These strollers usually have a seat for an infant or toddler in the front, and a bench or platform that lets an older child stand or jump on and off in the back. They are great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but they won't work well for younger babies or kids who don't yet have the balance or coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help keep your eyes on both children simultaneously and can fit into narrow spaces like the aisles of the grocery store that are crowded or family photos at the park. These models are smaller and more maneuverable than double strollers that are side-by-side however they don't have enough storage space under the carriage and can't accommodate infant car seat.
If you are planning to use a double stroller over many years or even for a decade, you should consider investing in one that will grow along with your children. Double strollers are more expensive than single ones however, if you choose them correctly, you can save money in the end.
Our testers tested each stroller in several maneuverability tests, as well as off-road adventures. They discovered that they were easy to maneuver on various terrains. If you plan to use it in urban areas or cities where sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy, then you may need something more robust and durable that can withstand rough treatment.
Many double strollers are built to last for a long period of time, but you may discover that the seats become more worn than you expected or your kids outgrow it before it's ready to retire. If you are on an extremely tight budget, you should choose an option with a warranty of at least four years. It is best to use it for as long as is possible.
Simple to use
If you're planning to purchase a double stroller, it's essential that it is simple to use for both children. It means that the harnesses should be comfortable for children who sit, and the handles should be easy to grasp for toddlers. This also means that the stroller can be moved easily, and can be maneuvered in tight spaces and around obstacles. In fact the top strollers in our Lab tests -- such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie and Thule Urban Glide 2 Double--are among the easiest to push.
A double stroller must be easy to fold and take down and store. The most efficient models fold in one or two steps and are small enough to fit into the majority of trunks. It's also a plus when the stroller is a versatile and has the option of adding another seat or a ride-along board. Some strollers can also hold infant car seats so you don't have to wake your baby up to transfer them to the stroller when it's time to go home.
A quality double stroller is also sturdy, so it can be used on a variety of types of terrain. For example, some can be converted into a jogging stroller with an adapted front wheel and some can be used as an umbrella stroller. Some strollers come with a bag that can be tacked at the back to carry shopping bags and groceries.
Another thing to consider is whether you'd prefer either a side-byside stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side strollers are generally wider than tandem models, and they can be difficult to maneuver through tight spaces such as doorways and aisles of the grocery store. However, they provide the convenience of allowing each child to view the same scenery. They are also much easier to navigate in bad weather since they provide more protection from the elements.
Many parents decide to purchase an adaptable stroller that can be used by a baby and then transformed into a double stroller when their children are older. After speaking with parents, it became apparent that it is better to purchase what you need now instead of trying to predict what you might require in the near future.
Storage
When shopping for double-strollers, it's crucial to take into consideration the amount of storage and the dimensions. Many models come with large, easy-to-access baskets that can store a lot of cargo. Many models also feature numerous cup holders for parents and reversible seat configurations to provide the best legroom possible for children. However, some of these features can add up in price and it's crucial to read descriptions and reviews carefully.
Most double strollers are categorized as tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers include two seats on one frame, and are best suited to older babies who are able to sit without assistance. most compact double stroller have more storage space than side-by-side models. However, some models can be difficult to push with the front seat fully reclined.
The side-by-side stroller has two separate seats that are positioned side-by-side. They're usually best suited to infants or toddlers, who haven't yet mastered sitting independently. They also have the added advantage of usually being easier to maneuver and push than tandem strollers. However, they typically have smaller storage baskets than tandem models and can be more expensive.
There are also double strollers made specifically for jogging or biking. These are more expensive than the standard all-terrain strollers, and they usually come with fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. They are worth considering only if you intend to use them for those activities.
There's a double stroller for every situation regardless of whether you're purchasing one for twins, a child who's not quite ready to ride on their own, or a child who's not quite old enough. Our top choices are easy to maneuver, flexible and stable, as well as seating that grows with your child's. Take a look at our top choices for the best double stroller to fit your family regardless of whether you are seeking a tandem stroller or one that accommodates your infant car seat.